Congenital Nasolacrimal Duct Obstruction

Overview, Signs and Symptoms of an Obstruction

The lacrimal gland produces tears which enter into the "duct" that drain the tears from the eye into the nose. The most common symptoms are If one has a plugged up "tear duct," not only will tears spill over the eyelids and run down the face, but the stagnant tears within the system can become infected.

excess tearing (tears might possibly run down the face) and

mucous discharge

This might possibly lead to recurrent red eyes and infections.

The excessive tearing can also produce secondary skin changes on the lower eyelids.

Congenital Nasolacrimal Duct Obstruction

Children are often born with an obstruction within the "tear duct." In fact, 6% of all children are born before their tear ducts are open.

The stagnant tears within the "tear duct" often become infected causing pus (heavy matter) to collect between the eyelids.

Antibiotics might possibly help some of the symptoms, BUT this is not cure for the blockage

Such obstructions might possibly resolve spontaneously within the initially few months of life. In fact, 95% of these children will show resolution before their initially birthday. If it does not resolve surgery might possibly be necessary.

Dacryocystocele or Dacryocele

Location of Blockage & Anatomy

The very end of this duct is the most common place for blockage to occur. This site is called the valve of Hasner at the distal nasolacrimal duct and might possibly represent failure of canalization of the epithelial cells that form the duct.

Medical Treatment of Congenital Obstructions

Many of these do open on their own given time.

Massaging from the tear sac in the might possibly help create a pressure wave that can open the blockage.